What To Do Following A Slip And Fall Accident: 5 Simple Steps

Henderson Slip And Fall Lawyers Jones WilsonIt can happen to anyone. An uneven sidewalk, a recently mopped grocery store floor or a greasy spill at a buffet restaurant. Any of the preceeding can result in a slip and fall accident, and those examples are just the tip of the iceberg.

If you’ve been involved in a slip and fall accident due to the negligence of others, it’s crucial that you understand what steps to take in order to protect your claim. I’ve seen quiet a bit as an experienced accident lawyer right here in Henderson, and in that time I’ve come to learn there are five simple steps everyone should take when they’ve been injured in a slip and fall accident.

Five Steps To Take Following A Henderson Slip And Fall Accident

Although the following actions to take after a slip and fall accident may seem like common sense, you’d be surprised how often victims fail to complete each step…especially Number 5.

Step One: Take Pictures Of Where The Slip And Fall Incident Took Place

Without photographic evidence of a foreign substance on the ground the premises owner may take the position that there was nothing there. Security incident reports or accident reports made by employees often misrepresent the conditions. They will say something to the effect of “floor was dry” or “no hazards noted.” Pictures of the foreign substance on the ground or wet clothing demonstrate there was, in fact, liquid on the ground.

Step Two:  Report Your Slip And Fall Accident

Many clients are embarrassed after a fall. They will get up and hobble out of the location without saying anything to anyone. The following day when they realize they are more seriously injured than they first thought they will return to the business to report the accident. This looks bad and makes it appear like they are trying to make a lawsuit out of something after having spoken with an attorney.  Although it is embarrassing, make a point of reporting the incident and showing employees the condition which caused the fall.

Step Three: Be Accurate When Responding To Questions On The Slip And Fall Incident Report

Be careful in providing a report at the scene. Oftentimes a business has protocols for handling accidents. These almost always include some type of report. Be concise and accurate in how you fill out the accident report without including too much detail.  Don’t speculate as to the type of liquid on the ground unless you know. Many clients will inadvertently make admissions like, “I should have noticed the puddle on the ground.” Most businesses like hotels and retail stores work hard to focus your attention on other things besides the ground directly in front of you. They have the duty to make sure the premises are safe for their patrons and guests.  Do no take upon yourself a duty above and beyond what the law requires.

 Step Four: Do Not Speak With The Businesses’ Slip And Fall Insurance Adjuster.

This one bears repeating. Do not speak with the insurance company. Many businesses will immediately forward the accident report to their insurance company. The insurance adjuster assigned to your case will make you believe you are obligated to provide a recorded statement.  This is not accurate and any statement you make will be used to minimize your injuries or contradict testimony you give later on at trial.  They will do whatever they can to get information from you to use against you in settlement or in litigation.

Step Five: Speak With An Experienced Slip And Fall Lawyer For Free

There are lots of moving parts to any case and slip-and-fall cases are more complex than most. It is important to find an attorney who specializes in this type of injury as there are nuances that can be the difference between losing or winning a settlement in your slip and fall case. An attorney can help you obtain the necessary medical treatment and position your case to provide you the maximum settlement possible.

Have You Been Injured In A Henderson Slip and Fall Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a slip and fall you need to speak with an experienced slip and fall lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Henderson office directly at 702.405.6000 to schedule a free consultation with our slip and fall attorneys.

Why Work with us?

Finding the right lawyer to represent your injury case can be extremely frustrating. However, with 35 years worth of experience and insider knowledge of how insurance companies work, the Jones Wilson law firm stands out from the crowd. Other attorneys pick and choose their clients based on case notoriety, but we’re here to help you, no matter how large or small your case.
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